What is a nasaloscopy?

A nasaloscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to visually examine the nasal cavity, nasal passages, and the back of the throat. It is commonly performed to identify various conditions affecting the nasal passages or to investigate symptoms like nasal congestion or discharge, nasal bleeding, difficulty breathing, sinusitis, or foreign body sensation.

During a nasaloscopy, a healthcare professional, usually an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) or a healthcare provider trained in otorhinolaryngology, uses a specialized instrument called a nasoscope.

Here's an overview of the steps involved in a nasaloscopy:

1. Preparation:

- You will be asked to lie down comfortably on an examination table.

- The healthcare professional may apply topical decongestants or anesthetics to your nasal passages to reduce any discomfort during the procedure. This step may be skipped if the procedure is being done for urgent evaluation of certain symptoms.

2. Insertion of the Nasoscope:

- The healthcare professional will gently insert the nasoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and light source at the tip, into one of your nostrils.

- The nasoscope is advanced through the nasal passage.

3. Visual Examination:

- As the nasoscope is inserted, the healthcare professional will be able to visualize the inside of your nasal passages, including the nasal septum, turbinates (small, bony structures inside the nose), and the openings of the sinuses.

- The camera on the nasoscope transmits live images to a connected monitor, allowing the healthcare professional to assess the structures of your nose, detect abnormalities, and evaluate the potential cause of symptoms.

4. Documentation and Removal:

- The healthcare professional may use the monitor to take still images or videos of any abnormal findings for documentation purposes.

- Once the examination is complete, the nasoscope is carefully withdrawn from the nasal passage.

Throughout the procedure, the healthcare professional may ask you to perform certain actions such as sniffing or tilting your head to facilitate the examination and gain a better view of specific areas.

A nasaloscopy is generally well-tolerated, but you may experience mild discomfort or a gag reflex during the procedure. The healthcare professional will strive to minimize any discomfort by using appropriate techniques and may provide reassurance and support during the examination.